Neubrandenburg's milk bank: lifesaver for premature and sick babies!

Neubrandenburg's milk bank: lifesaver for premature and sick babies!

There is a valuable facility in northern Germany that particularly benefits the little ones: the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Clinic, which has one of the few human milk banks in Germany. This special milk kitchen aims to provide premature babies and sick newborns with vital breast milk, which their mothers often cannot produce sufficiently. A healthy diet is particularly important for these vulnerable babies, as breast milk contains nutrients and antibodies that cannot be replicated in industrial infant formula. According to Nordkurier, the number of human milk banks in Germany is around 50, three of which are in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, including Greifswald and Schwerin.

What exactly happens in this dairy kitchen? Up to 200 portions of breast milk are prepared there every day, and at peak times even over 400. In order to meet the strict hygiene requirements, the breast milk is processed and stored under the highest standards, similar to blood donations. The human milk bank has its own rooms that are only accessible to authorized staff, supported by a cleaning staff. The donated breast milk is collected in sterile containers, frozen and stored after pasteurization to preserve its valuable ingredients.

The benefit for the little ones

The importance of donated breast milk, especially for premature babies, cannot be overstated. Studies show that these children who rely on breast milk are less likely to suffer from serious intestinal problems and infections and also have improved neurological development. Mothers of premature babies often have difficulty producing enough milk, which is why the human milk bank is an indispensable aid. The World Health Organization therefore strongly recommends the use of donated breast milk as the first choice when mothers cannot breastfeed themselves. Data from Medizin Tübingen also contributes to this, which underline the positive effects of breast milk on the development of newborns.

A nice positive side effect: During a recent fundraising appeal via social media, the human milk bank was able to significantly increase its stocks, which shows that the community is behind this valuable initiative. Women who would like to donate can do so up to six months after giving birth, provided they have at least 200 milliliters of milk “left over”. Further information about milk donation options is available by calling 0395 775-2958.

At a time when medical advances are becoming increasingly important, it is reassuring to know that there are facilities like the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Clinic that care for the well-being of the little ones while emphasizing the importance of nature. The human milk bank plays an essential role here and ensures that even the smallest patients receive the best possible nutrition.